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Business & Finance High School – ASPIRA

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From Our Leadership

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Dr. James Edwards
Principal
jedwards@aspirail.org

Dr. Edwards began his working career in his father’s concrete business where he learned the value of hard work and collaboration. Dr. Edwards eventually returned to school and received his B.A.in History from DePaul University and began his teaching career as a History and Law teacher at Wells High School in Chicago. He went on to serve as an English teacher and college counselor at Noble Street Charter High School. After obtaining his M.A. degree from Chicago State University, he served as a Dean of Students at Morton West High School, Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Elmwood Park High School, and Principal at South Elgin and Niles North High Schools. In 2018, he received his Ed.D from Aurora University in Educational Leadership and Supervision.

Dr. Edwards believes that as educators, we are faced with daily challenges and working collaboratively with a solution mindset can lay the foundation for a strong school culture and climate. In his words, “it is also crucial for a school to create a strong sense of connection and belonging where students can feel welcome, flourish academically, and build critical social and emotional skills in preparation for the next phase of their lives.” As principal, Dr. Edwards wants every Aspira graduate to be equity-minded, resilient, empathetic, and passionate learners who exceed expectations with the tools to flourish in college, career, or the workforce.

In his spare time, he enjoys all music genres and small Chicago theater productions. He is an avid plant enthusiast, reader, and a frequent visitor to summer street festivals. Dr. Edwards also volunteers at the Chicago Food Rescue and resides in the Humboldt Park neighborhood of Chicago with his partner and two dogs. He has four grown children who enjoy visiting occasionally.